The United Fresh Produce Association's Grower-Shipper Market Segment Board has announced that it will hold an educational session on pesticide residues at September's Washington Public Policy Conference.
Panel speakers for the session, entitled 'Getting Back to Real Science on Pesticide Residues', will aim to address speculation on the impact of residues following recent attention given to reports of detectable pesticide residues in fresh fruits and vegetables.
'Consumers and industry buyers are increasingly taking notice of news reports about pesticide residues on fresh produce and unfortunately, misinformation about pesticides can confuse consumers who are trying to increase produce consumption for better health,' said Ray Gilmer, United Fresh vice-president of communication.
'When growers follow strict government standards, with resulting residues below levels the EPA determines to be safe, why do fears persist? How will these concerns affect retail and foodservice buying? How can the industry and regulators work together to bring science back into the picture?,' he added. 'This discussion will tackle those challenging and frustrating questions, and provide real answers to a concerned industry.'
Speakers include Larry Elworth, chief agricultural counselor to the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, David Barney, business development manager for Bakkavör's UK prepared foods operation, and Cindy Jewell of California Giant Berry Farms.
The session is one of the multiple development opportunities at the Washington Public Policy Conference, which is being held on 14-16 September at the Gaylord National Hotel.
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